SF0045

Why they voted this way

The speaker opposes the bill because it bypasses the established licensure fee process for funding Game and Fish, which constituents have recently rejected. They are concerned about setting a precedent by shifting away from this long-standing policy.

Why they voted this way

The speaker supports the bill because Game and Fish cannot raise license fees to cover increased costs mandated by the legislature, such as healthcare and salaries. He argues that providing general fund resources is necessary to maintain their independence from political interference in wildlife management.

Why they voted this way

The speaker opposes the bill because he believes it creates an unsustainable hybrid system where Game and Fish avoids accountability for their budget decisions until they need more money. He argues that if the agency wants general fund support, it should be fully converted into a general funded agency subject to full legislative scrutiny.

Why they voted this way

The speaker supports the bill because he values the independence of Game and Fish, which allowed for credible management plans on divisive issues like wolf introduction. He argues that blending budgets is a flexible system already used by other agencies.

Why they voted this way

The speaker supports the bill because he believes Game and Fish is facing political attacks that threaten public hunting privileges, similar to issues seen in neighboring states. He argues that providing funding helps maintain control over these resources.

Why they voted this way

The speaker supports the bill because he believes it maintains legislative control through annual appropriations while addressing a funding crisis that could damage the agency. He argues that failing to act now will cause irreversible harm.

Why they voted this way

The speaker supports the bill because he believes Game and Fish is a world-class agency that needs financial help to avoid being defunded while suffering from current budget constraints.

Why they voted this way

The speaker opposes the bill because he believes it sets a dangerous precedent of using general funds to cover an agency's operating inconsistencies, which could lead to endless demands from other agencies. He argues there are better ways to address specific needs like grizzly bear management.

Why they voted this way

The speaker supports the bill because he believes the current funding model relying on license sales is failing due to declining hunter numbers and non-consumptive users who do not pay fees. He argues that without this change, the agency will continue to suffer.

Why they voted this way

The speaker supports the bill by pointing out that general fund appropriations to Game and Fish have already increased significantly over recent years, indicating a continued commitment to solving their funding problems.

Why they voted this way

The lawmaker supports the bill because it allows Game and Fish health insurance costs to be paid from the general fund like other agencies, requires cost proposals for the biennium, and provides necessary funding for grizzly bear management which currently lacks financial support.